Language

English is Kiribati’s official language, but most natives also speak the local Gilbertese tongue. You shouldn't have a problem communicating wherever you go, although the farther you get from Tarawa and Christmas Island, the less English is used.

Currency

Kiribati and the Islands use the Australian dollar; a major currency that can be exchanged anywhere. You can also change money at the Bank of Kiribati or ANZ bank on Tarawa or Christmas Island. Kiribati is a mostly cash-oriented country, though major cards are accepted in hotels and some shops. Traveler’s checks should be in Aussie dollars.

Time

Kiribati is GMT+14 and the Line Islands are the first to see the new day.

Electricity

The power supply in Kiribati is 240V/50Hz, the same as in the UK. Plugs are of the I type with slotted three pins, the same as Australia. US travelers should have a converter and adapter if bringing electrical devices such as shavers and hairdryers. The latest smartphones (including iPhones) and laptops will often charge on either voltage.

Communications

Kiribati's country code +686. When dialing out, you usually have to go through the operator, and via radio telephone in the more remote islands. Mobile phones run on the GSM 900 network through Telecom Services Kiribati, though coverage is sketchy outside the capital. Internet connectivity is limited, with the odd internet café in towns and main hotels.

Duty-free

Duty-free allowances include up to 200 cigarettes or 225 g of cigars or tobacco, one liter of spirits and one liter of wine (if 21 years or older) and reasonable amounts of perfume and sports equipment. You can only bring in one camera and one pair of binoculars tax-free.

Tourist Office

Kiribati National Tourism Office, Tarawa: +686 25 573 or http://www.kiribatitourism.gov.ki

Embassies and Consulates in Kiribati

Australian High Commission, Tarawa: +686 21 184
New Zealand High Commission, Tarawa: +686 21 400
Cuban Embassy, Tarawa: +686 22 771
Taiwanese Embassy, Tarawa: +686 22 557-8
Chinese Representative Office, Tarawa: +686 21 486

Emergency

Emergency services: 999